West Australian Football

Football Clubs to share in Telstra’s million dollar fund

Former AFL star Ben Dixon today launched the 2008 Telstra Assistance Fund (TAF), which offers local Australian Football Clubs the chance to access a share in $1.25 million worth of vital sporting equipment. As part of Telstra's sponsorship of the AFL, the Telstra Assistance Fund is designed to supply Australian Football Clubs with essential equipment, such as coaching supplies, balls, hit shields and tackle bags. The Telstra Assistance Fund has already contributed over $5 million worth of sporting equipment to more than 4000 sports and community clubs nationally in the past six years. Last year saw record applications to the TAF, with 250 Australian Football Clubs successful in receiving equipment grants. Former AFL star Ben Dixon said the Telstra Assistance Fund continues to bring considerable benefits to local Australian Football Clubs across Australia. “This is a fantastic initiative providing grassroots Australian Football Clubs with essential equipment and resources to help promote a healthy lifestyle and encourage participation. I urge all clubs, including those who have applied in the past, to apply for the chance to receive assistance through the program,” Mr Dixon said. “Our local Australian Football Clubs play a critical role in the early stages of player development and programs like the Telstra Assistance Fund help support the growth of AFL in this country.” Telstra aims to provide a significant contribution to Australian Football Clubs at a grassroots level through the Telstra Assistance Fund. This year, the fund covers AFL, football (soccer), swimming, rugby league and surf life saving. AFL clubs can find more information about the 2008 Telstra Assistance Fund and apply online at www.beinvolved.telstra.com. Clubs who have registered for the fund in previous years are also eligible to apply again for assistance. Applications are open until Monday 30 June 2008.